Targeting a key protein in Ewing sarcoma to improve treatment outcomes

The interface of transcription, DNA damage and epigenetics: A therapeutic vulnerability of the EWS-FLI1 transcription factor

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11077804

This study is looking at new ways to treat Ewing sarcoma by testing a combination of two medicines, trabectedin and irinotecan, to see how well they work together and why some patients might not respond, with the goal of making treatment more effective and easier on patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11077804 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on Ewing sarcoma, a type of cancer that relies on the EWS-FLI1 transcription factor for survival. The team aims to develop new therapies that inhibit this protein, particularly using a compound called trabectedin in combination with irinotecan. By studying how these treatments work and why some patients experience resistance, the researchers hope to enhance the effectiveness of the therapy and reduce side effects. This approach could lead to better management of Ewing sarcoma and improved patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, particularly those whose tumors express the EWS-FLI1 transcription factor.

Not a fit: Patients with Ewing sarcoma who do not have the EWS-FLI1 mutation or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with Ewing sarcoma, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches targeting oncogenic transcription factors, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancer Genes
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.